Top tips from parents to couples starting a family

Checklist for couples starting a family

Any parent will tell you having kids is a shock to the system and how ever prepared you think you are, there will always be little surprises round every corner.

So we thought it might be nice to put together a ‘what we wish we had known,’ top tips from parents for soon-to-be and new parents. So here goes…

1. Strangers offering advice

Once you become a parent, you will find that complete strangers will come up and talk to you, who never would have before you had kids, to give you random tips on parenting….er…thanks?!

2. Have a spare special toy

Whatever it is your little one gets attached to for comfort, whether a teddy or special blanket, you minute you realise it’s their favourite, go out and buy a spare, no, buy two or three, losing it will lead to nights of no sleep for them and you.

3. Your handbag is no longer yours

Your handbag is no longer a smart place for your belongings, it is now an endless pitt of your child’s things that should be in your changing bag but continuously migrate to your handbag like dummies, drinks, nappies and of course the lovely leaves and stones your little ones give you as presents.

4. Take all advice with a pinch of salt

When you have kids, everyone has some great advice for you, and many parents will delight in telling you how their angel slept through the night at three weeks, or was potty trained at a year. Take it all with a pinch of salt and always remember: ALL BABIES ARE DIFFERENT AND DO THINGS AT DIFFERENT TIMES.

5. Baby wipes are your new best friend

You may never believe this now, but baby wipes will be your best friend and you will never leave the house without them. They are the answer to any messy situation.

6. Always accept help

You not realise it now, but you will need help. Anyone who offers you help, accept it, catch up on some sleep, get some chores done or just get some me time.